Understanding Fiber Internet and Alternatives

Our networking pro reveals three dead-simple fixes most people miss for faster internet, plus insider secrets to choosing a better internet plan.

Guest: Senior staff writer Joel Santo Domingo

Products We Recommend

• Tool to find internet providers in your area: www.broadbandmap.fcc.gov
• Look up your internet speed (upload speeds especially!): www.speedtest.net  or www.fast.com (from Netflix)
• USB hub for plugging in an ethernet cord to a computer or laptop: Anker 555 USB-C Hub (8-in-1)
• Powerline adapter for better wifi without a cord: TP-Link TL-WPA8631P Kit
• Joel loves: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro

Additional Reading

• The Gear to Get Reliable Wi-Fi in Any Home
• The 3 Best Wi-Fi Routers of 2025
• The Best Cable Modem of 2025
• The 4 Best Powerline Networking Adapters of 2025

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The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast